The Solihull Barons are delighted to announce the return of a pair of fan favourites with the news that both Rich Slater and Sam Hewitt have put pen to paper and signed for Phil Lee’s 2022-23 Barons.
Rich Slater, has re-signed with the Barons in a deal which will extend a career with the Barons going all the way back to a debut with the squad in the 2005-6 season. In that time Rich has confirmed himself as one of the most prolific scorers for the Barons with over 225 goals, placing him third on the team’s all time list.
Having played with Slater for many years, bringing back the winger was a straightforward decision for Lee :
“It is great to see Richard has agreed to return to the Barons for the new season. Richard has a great eye for the net and causes problems for D men due to his speed. Having coached Richard in the juniors and also the senior team, I look forward to again working with him in the new season.
For Slater continuing at Hobs Moat, his hockey home for almost his entire career, was a similarly obvious return and he is already looking ahead to a competitive new season :
“Hi everyone, I hope you’ve all been keeping well over the off season.
“You will be aware that there have been some personnel changes since the end of last season. I want to thank Callum for all his effort and commitment during his role as player/coach – an unenviable task – and wish him all the best with his future endeavours. With that, I’d like to welcome Leepy into his new position as Head Coach. I am no stranger to Leepy’s ways of working, having been coached by him (only) 14 or so years ago in juniors, as well as being lucky enough to play alongside him at the Barons.
“For me, it was a strange year last season. We didn’t really get a consistent run of form together, which is something I’m hoping we can put right next time round. With changes comes uncertainty, but I am confident that Leepy will be able to build a group of players that will work hard and play for one another. The league appears to be getting closer in terms of ability, so we need to make sure that we bring our best to every game. This season provides a welcome return to the league for the Deeside Dragons. After a couple of years without access their rink, you can bet they are eager to hit the ground running so we need to be ready!
“The loss of Soarsy will leave a goal-scoring shaped void in the team, but also gives players an opportunity to step up and lead in that area. I want to wish Tom all the best and thank him for all he has given for the Barons over the past 7 years.
“Looking forward to getting going again!
Barons fans will also be delighted to hear of the return of one of Solihull’s most popular players, with the news that goalie Sam Hewitt has inked his Solihull 2022-23 contract and will be back for another year between the pipes at Hobs Moat.
Sam has been a regular at the Barons since 2008-09 and with his fluster free approach to owning his net, he has been the calming final line of defence relied on to secure many game wins over the years.
Adding Sam to the line-up, another Solihull to the core player, is another key signing for coach Phil Lee and a signature he was keen to gather to help build the squad.
“Sam is a player I coached previously in the juniors and senior team. Sam is a favourite of the fans and I had no hesitation in inviting him back. Sam plays a pivotal role in the team and will give us the opportunity to close the opposition down. His experience, calm approach and excellent goaltending will be a key factor in helping us to secure wins in the league. Welcome back Sam.
Sam was also delighted to return to the Barons for a further year, looked forward to working with Phil Lee once more and to getting back out on the Hobs Moat ice.
“First of all, its great to see such a Barons legend back involved with the club, Leepy was actually my coach in my final year of juniors before moving into senior hockey, and a mentor that continued to help develop me as a goalie throughout my senior career.
“I had a few conversations with Leepy throughout the summer about next season and what my plans were, I think Leepy takes on a real tough job as the Barons go through a rebuilding process. Leepy is putting together a competitive squad with some new faces and I know like other long standing Barons players we are all excited for the upcoming challenge that lies ahead.
More news and announcements on our 2022-23 player roster and other plans are coming soon so keep following our social media feeds for all the very latest.
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